Tips from Our Workmans Comp Attorneys

Millions of Americans spend 40+ hours a week at their offices, sitting at a desk. This may not seem like a work environment that would be likely to cause an on the job injury, but the long-term effects of sitting at a desk and staring at a computer monitor for extended periods of time are very real and can be dangerous. The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) strives to educate both employers and employees about the causes of ergonomic injuries and other musculoskeletal injuries that threaten office workers.

Ergonomic Science

Ergonomics is an applied science that can assist employers in reducing the musculoskeletal injuries that are common in desk workers. These are injuries suffered to the person’s tendons, muscles, nerves, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal disks.

OSHA and Ergonomic Injuries

OSHA recommends that employers provide keyboards, computer mice, chairs and workstations that are adjustable and ergonomically safe to work on for extended periods. The equipment should enhance workers’ ability to function, overcome human limitations and foster user acceptance. Employers should also train workers on how to properly use this equipment.

Preventing Ergonomic Injuries

Employees can also take preventative measures to avoid ergonomic injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following to employees at desks:

Keep equipment used most frequently within arm’s reach.

Avoid repeatedly bending over to pick objects up.

Ensure your computer screen is as close to eye-level as possible.

Make sure your chair is adjustable and supports your lower back and upper back equally as well. Experts recommend chairs have five wheels and a padded and breathable seat cushion.

If you spend a lot of time on the phone, consider using a headset.

Take regular breaks throughout the day every hour to get up from your desk and walk around—this will provide a break for your back, shoulders and eyes as well.

If you suffered from an injury or adverse health condition as a result of your workplace conditions, you may be eligible for workmans comp. Office workers are eligible for workmans comp, just like employees in any other industry; our workers compensation lawyers help all workers obtain the benefits they need. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our family is here to work for your benefit; let us help you.

“I am very blessed to have found this firm. They have made sure that I have received all the compensation possible related to my claim. This is the firm I would recommend to my own family members and anyone else in need of legal representation due to work related injuries.”

Larrimer & Larrimer, LLC, keeps its main offices in Columbus, but we also operate in Granville, Zanesville, Logan, Newark, Lima and Portsmouth. As part of our dedication to helping as many injured workers in Ohio as possible, we never want anyone to draw a blank when asking, “Is there an experienced and caring workers’ compensation lawyer near me?” Let us know what we can do for you by requesting a free consultation today.